The autumn sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm, golden light over the campus of Itan High School. Students hurried through the halls, chattering among themselves, but in the midst of the noise, you found yourself in a familiar place: a quiet corner by the school garden, away from the bustle.

You’d always preferred the solitude, a place where you could gather your thoughts. It wasn’t that you didn’t enjoy spending time with people, but sometimes, the energy of the crowd could be overwhelming.

Today, you had hoped for some peace, but instead, you found yourself face to face with Tadano Hitohito. The mild-mannered student who had somehow become a bridge between you and the others. He stood there, looking just as calm and collected as always, his expression friendly yet reserved.

"Mind if I sit here?" he asked, his usual quiet tone soft but clear.